In a recent paper, Bao’s team describes the chemical modification of brittle plastic to make it highly bendable, while enhancing electrical conductivity. A more seamless connection between stiff electronics and flexible organic electrodes in our bodies is achieved.

According to lead author Yue Wang, “One thing about the human brain that a lot of people don’t know is that it changes volume throughout the day, It swells and deswells.” Current electronic implants can’t stretch and contract with the brain, making it difficult to maintain a good connection.